JP7576563B2 - Aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device configured for use with an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol-forming substrate contained within the article. The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system including such a device and such an article.

Aerosol generating devices for generating inhalable aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming substrate are generally known from the prior art. Such devices may include a heater, in particular a resistive or inductive heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate in the device. The substrate itself may be an integral part of the aerosol-generating article, which may be at least partially received in the receiving chamber of the device. The receiving chamber, in particular the chamber walls, may provide a tight fit for the aerosol-generating article in order to hold the article in the receiving chamber during use of the device. However, a tight fit may result in undesirable heat loss by direct heat conduction from the aerosol-generating article to the inner surface of the receiving chamber. Furthermore, when the article fits tightly in the receiving chamber, condensation formation in the receiving chamber may cause undesirable wetting of the article, in particular of the substrate contained therein. Such condensation formation may occur when vaporized compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate cool in contact with those portions of the chamber walls at temperatures below the dew point. Furthermore, a tight fit may restrict airflow through the receiving chamber, which in turn may generate a high resistance to withdrawal (RID). However, to some extent a tight fit is necessary since the article may otherwise be displaced or removed from the device. This applies more particularly since the aerosol-forming substrate tends to shrink during use, which may reduce retention of the article by the surrounding chamber.

It would therefore be desirable to have an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system that have the advantages of the prior art solutions but without their limitations. In particular, it would be desirable to have an aerosol generating device and corresponding system that provides improved retention of an aerosol-generating article within a receiving chamber of the device.

In general, the first and second shaft portions may be considered as surfaces including peaks and valleys, where the peaks correspond to the areas of the first and second protrusions that have the shortest distance to the central axis or are closest to them, and the valleys correspond to the areas between adjacent protrusions that have the greatest distance to the central axis or are furthest from the central axis. The first and second protrusions are part of the first and second shaft portions and thus are part of the inner surface of the receiving chamber.

According to the present invention, an aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol generating article is provided. The device includes a receiving chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol generating article. The receiving chamber has an inner surface and a central axis. Along the central axis, the inner surface includes a first shaft portion, a second shaft portion, and an intermediate shaft portion. The intermediate shaft portion is located between the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion. The first shaft portion includes a plurality of first protrusions. The second shaft portion includes a plurality of second protrusions. The plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions are configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol generating article, preferably a first support element and a second support element of the aerosol generating article, respectively, to hold the article in the receiving chamber. That is, the plurality of first protrusions is preferably configured to contact the first support element of the aerosol generating article, and the plurality of second protrusions is preferably configured to contact the second support element of the aerosol generating article. The first and second protrusions extend beyond the intermediate shaft portion of the inner surface in a direction toward the central axis. The intermediate shaft portion is preferably configured to surround the base element of the aerosol-generating article when the article is received in the receiving chamber. The base element of the aerosol-generating article is preferably located between the first and second support elements of the aerosol-generating article.

As used herein, the term "extending in a direction toward the central axis" means that the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions extend into the interior of the receiving chamber. Depending on the general shape of the receiving chamber, the direction toward the central axis may in particular be perpendicular to the central axis. Furthermore, "extending beyond the intermediate axis portion of the inner surface in a direction toward the central axis" means in particular that in a direction toward the central axis, the plurality of first protrusions and each of the plurality of second protrusions extend beyond a corresponding region of the intermediate portion having the same azimuthal position relative to the central axis of the receiving chamber. That is, at a given azimuthal position of the respective first protrusion or second protrusion, the intermediate portion is recessed outwardly relative to the respective first protrusion or second protrusion as viewed in an outward direction extending away from the central axis.

As used herein, the term "configured to contact at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article" should be understood to mean that each of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions contacts the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the chamber.

Because the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions extend beyond the intermediate shaft portion in a direction toward the central axis, the aerosol-generating article does not come into physical contact with the intermediate shaft portion when it is received in the chamber. Any direct heat conduction from the aerosol-generating article to the intermediate portion is therefore inhibited. Advantageously, this results in a reduction in undesired heat loss and thus an increase in heating efficiency. Furthermore, because there is no direct physical contact between the intermediate shaft portion and those portions of the article that directly face the intermediate shaft portion when the article is received in the receiving chamber, wetting of the article due to condensation is avoided at least in these portions.

It will be further understood that the aerosol-generating article is in contact only with the first and second protrusions of the first and second shaft portions, respectively. The contact surface between the article and the receiving chamber is therefore reduced compared to a receiving chamber without protrusions. Thus, conductive heat exchange between the aerosol-generating article and the surrounding receiving chamber as well as wetting of the article are further reduced. The first and second protrusions preferably comprise contact surfaces for contacting the aerosol-generating article. The shape of the contact surface is adapted to the shape of the respective portion of the aerosol-generating article that the respective contact surface contacts upon insertion of the article into the receiving chamber. In particular, the contact surface may be curved.

Although not in physical contact with the intermediate shaft portion, the aerosol-generating article is still securely held in the receiving chamber by the first and second protrusions of the first and second shaft portions, respectively. In particular, due to the localized nature of the contact between the aerosol-generating article and the first and second protrusions, the holding pressure between the article and the protrusions is locally enhanced such that the protrusions may form an enlarged localized indentation in the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, the localized indentation makes it possible to compensate for possible contraction of the article during use. Thus, the risk of the article being displaced or falling off the aerosol generating device is advantageously reduced.

The plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions are spaced apart from one another such that airflow passages are formed between adjacent first protrusions and adjacent second protrusions, respectively.

Advantageously, the number, shape and distance of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions, respectively, may be selected such that the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) is within a desired range when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the receiving chamber of the device. The resistance to withdrawal (RTD) may be within a range of 70 mmWG to 120 mmWG. Preferably, the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) may be 40 mmWG to 70 mmWG, particularly 45 mmWG to 65 mmWG, for example 55 mmWG.

The plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions may each include the smallest two first and second protrusions. In particular, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions may each include two, three, four or more first protrusions and second protrusions. It is preferred that the plurality of first protrusions includes 12 first protrusions. Similarly, the plurality of second protrusions includes 12 second protrusions. Such a number provides a reasonable balance between a sufficiently large retention of the article and a sufficient reduction in the adverse effects mentioned above.

The first protrusions, or the second protrusions, or both the first protrusions and the second protrusions may be arranged in a regular pattern along the inner circumference of the receiving chamber. The first protrusions and the second protrusions, respectively, may be uniformly distributed along the inner circumference of the receiving chamber. In particular, the first protrusions and the second protrusions, respectively, may be uniformly spaced apart from one another with respective valleys (gaps) arranged between two adjacent protrusions. Advantageously, this allows the aerosol-generating article to be held in a uniform and therefore particularly stationary manner.

The receiving chamber may have a substantially cylindrical shape. As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical" refers to the shape of the receiving chamber when masking the protrusions or without considering the protrusions, i.e., the shape of the envelope passing through the radially outermost portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber. In the case of a substantially cylindrical receiving chamber, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions extend radially inward toward the central axis beyond the intermediate axis portion. In particular, any distance between the inner surface and the central axis is measured radially relative to the central axis, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the central axis. The envelope surface intersecting the peak of each protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions also preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape. Similarly, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions also preferably has a substantially cylindrical shape.

Alternatively, the receiving chamber may have a substantially tapered, in particular substantially conical or substantially frustoconical, shape. As used herein, the term "substantially tapered, in particular substantially conical or substantially frustoconical, shape" refers to the shape of the receiving chamber when masking the protrusions or without considering the protrusions, i.e., the shape of the envelope passing through the radially outermost part of the inner surface of the receiving chamber. For any of these shapes, any distance between the inner surface and the central axis is preferably measured perpendicular to the surface of the substantially tapered, in particular substantially conical or substantially frustoconical, shape. The envelope surface intersecting the peak of each protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions is also preferably substantially tapered, in particular having a substantially conical or substantially frustoconical shape. Similarly, the envelope surface intersecting the peak of each protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions may also be substantially tapered, in particular having a substantially conical or substantially frustoconical shape.

It is preferred that the intermediate portion does not include any protrusions or is free of any protrusions. That is, it is preferred that the intermediate portion does not include any protrusions. In particular, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions may be the only protrusions of any shaft portion of the inner surface. Similarly, it is preferred that the intermediate portion does not include any depressions or is free of any depressions. That is, it is preferred that the intermediate portion does not include any depressions. In particular, the intermediate portion of the inner surface may be flat. As used herein, the term "flat" refers to a smooth surface that is flat or planar and curved at the same time. Thus, the intermediate shaft portion may be smooth and in particular free of protrusions and depressions.

Alternatively, the intermediate portion may include one or more third protrusions. For example, the intermediate portion may be corrugated. However, each of the one or more third protrusions of the intermediate portion is recessed outwardly with respect to an envelope surface that intersects with the crests of each of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions. That is, each one of the one or more third protrusions preferably does not extend inwardly toward the central axis beyond an envelope surface that intersects with the crests of each of the plurality of first and second protrusions.

The receiving chamber may include an insertion opening through which the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the receiving chamber. As used herein, the direction in which the aerosol-generating article is inserted is indicated as the insertion direction. The insertion direction preferably corresponds to an extension of the central axis of the receiving chamber. Upon insertion into the receiving chamber, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article may still extend outwardly through the insertion opening. The outwardly extending portion is preferably provided for interaction with the user, in particular for entry into the user's mouth. Thus, during use of the device, the insertion opening may be close to the user's mouth. As used herein, in use of the device, the section close to the insertion opening or the section close to the user's mouth is indicated by the prefix "proximal", respectively. Sections disposed further away are indicated by the prefix "distal".

The receiving chamber may thus be disposed or located at a proximal portion of the aerosol generating device. Similarly, the insertion opening may be disposed or located at a proximal end of the aerosol generating device.

The first shaft portion is preferably located at least partially at a distal end portion of the receiving chamber. Similarly, the second shaft portion is preferably located at least partially at a proximal end portion of the receiving chamber.

The aerosol generating device may include a lid for covering the insertion opening of the receiving chamber. The lid may be removably attached to the body of the aerosol generating device. In particular, the lid may be hinged, i.e., the lid may be attached to the body of the aerosol generating device by a hinge. Similarly, the receiving chamber of the aerosol generating device may be hinged, i.e., openable by a hinge. For example, the aerosol generating device may include two housing parts, both of which form at least a portion of the receiving chamber, which are connected to each other by a hinge. In any of these configurations, the receiving chamber may be accessible laterally relative to the central axis. That is, the aerosol generating article may be inserted into the receiving chamber laterally relative to the central axis. In addition to the lateral accessibility, the receiving chamber may further include an opening that may extend outward, in particular in a direction corresponding to the direction of the central axis of the receiving chamber, when at least a portion of the aerosol generating article is inserted into the receiving chamber through the opening.

In general, the length of the first shaft portion, the second shaft portion, and the intermediate shaft portion may depend on the design of the aerosol-forming article to be received and held in the receiving chamber. As will be explained in more detail below, the article may include different elements. In particular, when the aerosol-generating article has a substantially rod shape, the article may include different elements that are sequentially arranged along the length axis of the article. Each portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber, i.e., the first shaft portion, the second shaft portion, and the intermediate shaft portion, is preferably assigned to a specific element of the aerosol-forming article.

The first and second shaft portions may have equal lengths in the direction of the central axis. Advantageously, the equal lengths of the first and second shaft portions provide uniform retention of the article in the receiving chamber. Alternatively, the first and second shaft portions may have different lengths in the direction of the central axis.

The intermediate shaft portion may have a length in the direction of the central axis that is at least 20 percent of the length of the inner surface or receiving chamber. Preferably, the intermediate portion has a length in the range of 20 percent to 40 percent, particularly 25 percent to 40 percent, and especially 30 percent to 35 percent of the length of the inner surface or receiving chamber. Advantageously, such a length provides a sufficient reduction in the above-mentioned adverse effects.

The first shaft portion, the second shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion together may have a length of at least 50%, in particular 75%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably a sustainable 100% of the total length of the inner surface or receiving chamber in the direction of the central axis. That is, the first shaft portion, the second shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion together may cover a length of at least 50%, in particular 75%, preferably at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, even more preferably at least 95%, and most preferably a sustainable 100% of the total length of the inner surface or receiving chamber in the direction of the central axis.

One or more of the first protrusions, in particular all of them, may extend in a direction substantially along the central axis of the receiving chamber. Similarly, one or more of the second protrusions, in particular all of them, may extend in a direction substantially along the central axis of the receiving chamber. The direction of extension substantially along the central axis may be parallel to the central axis, especially in the case of a substantially cylindrical receiving chamber. Thus, one or more of the first protrusions, in particular all of them, may extend parallel to the central axis. Similarly, one or more of the second protrusions, in particular all of them, may extend parallel to the central axis. Similarly, the direction of extension of each protrusion substantially along the central axis may be inclined (e.g., 2 degrees to 5 degrees) to the central axis, but still lie in a respective common plane with the central axis. The latter situation applies in particular to substantially tapered, for example conical or frustoconical receiving chambers. Thus, generally, one or more of the first protrusions, in particular all of them, may extend along a respective plane that includes the central axis. Similarly, one or more, and in particular all, of the plurality of second protrusions may extend along a respective plane that includes the central axis.

Advantageously, the direction of extension of each protrusion substantially along the central axis facilitates insertion and extraction of the aerosol-generating article into and from the receiving chamber. This holds especially when the insertion direction corresponds to the direction of the central axis.

When viewed in the direction of the central axis, the multiple first protrusions and the multiple second protrusions may be arranged such that the position of each first protrusion coincides with the position of the respective second protrusion. In particular, the multiple first protrusions and the multiple second protrusions may be arranged such that each first protrusion overlaps the respective second protrusion when viewed in the direction of the central axis.

The aerosol generating device may include one or more end stops disposed within the receiving chamber, in particular at the distal end of the receiving chamber. The one or more end stops are preferably configured to limit the insertion depth of the aerosol-generating article into the receiving chamber. In particular, the one or more end stops may be configured to prevent the aerosol-generating article from abutting an inner surface of the receiving chamber at a distal end of the receiving chamber opposite an insertion opening of the receiving chamber at the proximal end of the receiving chamber. Thus, the one or more end stops advantageously provide a free space within the distal portion of the receiving chamber, which allows free airflow between the distal end of the receiving chamber and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article when the article is received within the receiving chamber. The one or more end stops may include a contact surface against which the aerosol-generating article, in particular the distal end of the aerosol-generating article, may abut when the article is received within the receiving chamber.

The aerosol generating device may preferably include a plurality of separate end stops, for example three end stops disposed within the receiving chamber, particularly at the distal end of the receiving chamber.

The end stops may be symmetrically disposed about the central axis. In particular, the end stops may be equally spaced about the central axis. As discussed above, this allows for free airflow around the end stops and the articles received within the receiving chamber.

The one or more end stops preferably have a dimension in the direction of the central axis in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, in particular in the range of 1 mm to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, for example 1.4 mm.

The one or more end stops are preferably shaped and sized to extend in a direction toward the central axis beyond the first and second protrusions. The one or more end stops preferably have a radial extension perpendicular to the central axis in the range of 0.7 mm to 6 mm, particularly in the range of 1 mm to 5 mm, and preferably in the range of 2 mm to 4 mm.

The one or more end stops may preferably have the shape of a ring segment, especially when the receiving chamber has a substantially cylindrical shape. The ring segment may have a height dimension in the direction of the central axis and may have a radial dimension perpendicular to the central axis. As mentioned above, the height dimension of the ring segment may be in the range of 0.5 millimeters to 5 millimeters, in particular in the range of 1 millimeter to 4 millimeters, preferably in the range of 1 millimeter to 2 millimeters. The radial dimension of the ring segment may be in the range of 0.7 millimeters to 6 millimeters, in particular in the range of 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, preferably in the range of 1 millimeter to 3 millimeters, for example 1.3 millimeters.

By way of example, the receiving chamber may be formed as an elongated cavity that includes a bottom at a distal end of the receiving chamber. In this configuration, one or more end stops may be disposed within the receiving chamber to protrude from the bottom at the distal end in a direction toward the proximal end of the receiving chamber, particularly in a direction opposite to the direction of insertion of the article.

When inserting the aerosol-generating article into the receiving chamber, the aerosol generating device may provide a certain resistance to withdrawal. In general, the resistance to withdrawal is determined, in particular, by the particular shape and dimensions of the receiving chamber, by the number, shape, and dimensions of the first and second protrusions, and, if present, by the number, shape, and dimensions of the one or more end stops. Thus, the resistance to withdrawal may be adjusted, in particular, by appropriate selection of at least one of the number, shape, and dimensions of the first protrusions, or the number, shape, and dimensions of the second protrusions, or, if present, the number, shape, and dimensions of the one or more end stops.

The airflow passages defined between the plurality of first protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions, and, if present, the one or more end stops, preferably have dimensions such that, in use of the device, the resistance to draw (RTD) is between 70 mmWG and 120 mmWG. Preferably, the resistance to draw (RTD) may be between 40 mmWG and 70 mmWG, in particular between 45 mmWG and 65 mmWG, for example 55 mmWG. As used herein, resistance to draw relates to the aerosol generating device in use, i.e., a system including the aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article received in a receiving chamber of the device.

When present, the one or more end stops may cause a reduction in the airflow passage defined between the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions, particularly if the end stops partially or completely cover or block the airflow passage defined between adjacent protrusions. Thus, the one or more end stops may cause an increase in pull-out resistance compared to a device without any end stops. Preferably, the increase in pull-out resistance is up to 50 percent, particularly up to 25 percent, and especially up to 15 percent, compared to a device without any end stops.

At least one of the number, shape and dimensions of the one or more end stops is preferably selected such that, in use of the device, the pull-out resistance is at most 150 percent, in particular at most 140 percent, preferably at most 130 percent, even more preferably at most 120 percent of the pull-out resistance in the absence of the one or more end stops or without taking the one or more end stops into account.

Thus, at least one of the number, shape, and dimensions of the one or more end stops may be selected such that, in use of the device, the airflow passing between the plurality of first protrusions, the plurality of second protrusions, and the one or more end stops is at least 50 percent, in particular at least 60 percent, preferably at least 70 percent, and even more preferably at least 80 percent of the airflow passing between the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions in the absence of the one or more end stops.

Similarly, the one or more end stops may cover up to 50 percent, in particular up to 40 percent, preferably up to 30 percent, and even more preferably up to 20 percent of the total cross-sectional area of all gaps (free spaces) defined between adjacent first protrusions or between adjacent second protrusions as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. To this end, at least one of the number, shape, and dimensions of the one or more end stops may be selected to cover up to 50 percent, in particular up to 40 percent, preferably up to 30 percent, and even more preferably up to 20 percent of the total cross-sectional area of all gaps (free spaces) defined between adjacent first protrusions or between adjacent second protrusions as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis.

In the absence of any end stops, or without taking into account possible reductions in cross-sectional area due to the presence of one or more end stops, the (unreduced) total cross-sectional area of all gaps (free spaces) defined between adjacent first protrusions or adjacent second protrusions, as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis, may be in the range of 2 square millimeters to 9 square millimeters, in particular in the range of 3 square millimeters to 8 square millimeters, and preferably in the range of 3 square millimeters to 6 square millimeters.

In contrast, when taking into account the reduction in the total free cross-sectional area of all gaps, the (reduced free) total cross-sectional area of all gaps defined between adjacent first protrusions or between adjacent second protrusions, as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis, may be in the range of 2 square millimeters to 7 square millimeters, in particular in the range of 3 square millimeters to 7 square millimeters, preferably in the range of 4 square millimeters to 6 square millimeters. The minimum free cross-sectional area as mentioned above ensures the minimum airflow and therefore the minimum withdrawal resistance of the use of the device.

The receiving chamber preferably has a substantially circular cross-section as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. In particular, the intermediate shaft portion may have a circular cross-section as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Similarly, at least one of the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion may have a substantially circular cross-section as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis without considering the first protrusion or the second protrusion, respectively.

Alternatively, the receiving chamber may also have a substantially oval cross-section, or a substantially elliptical cross-section, or a substantially square cross-section, or a substantially rectangular cross-section, or a substantially triangular cross-section, or a substantially polygonal cross-section. As used herein, the above-mentioned cross-sectional shapes preferably refer to the cross-sectional shape of the receiving chamber without considering any protrusions.

Similarly, the envelope curve about the central axis intersecting with the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions or the plurality of second protrusions may have one of a substantially circular or substantially oval shape, or a substantially elliptical shape, or a substantially square shape, or a substantially rectangular shape, or a substantially triangular shape, or a substantially polygonal shape. The shape of the envelope curve about the central axis intersecting with the peak of each of the plurality of first protrusions or the plurality of second protrusions, respectively, preferably corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol-generating article received in the receiving chamber.

The regions of the first shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent first projections, and the region of the intermediate portion may be disposed on a common shell surface, in particular a common cylindrical shell surface. Similarly, the regions of the second shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent second projections, and the region of the intermediate portion may be disposed on a common shell surface, in particular a common cylindrical shell surface. Similarly, the regions of the first shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent first projections, and the region of the second shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent second projections, may be disposed on a common shell surface, in particular a common cylindrical shell surface. It is preferred that the regions of the first shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent first projections, and the region of the second shaft portion, in particular the regions between adjacent second projections, and the region of the intermediate portion may be disposed on a common shell surface, in particular a common cylindrical shell surface.

Alternatively, the area of the intermediate portion may be recessed outward relative to the area between adjacent first protrusions or the area between adjacent second protrusions, or relative to both the area between adjacent first protrusions and the area between adjacent second protrusions.

At least one of the plurality of first protrusions, and preferably all of the plurality of first protrusions, may have a constant height extension along the extension of the respective protrusion perpendicular to the central axis. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, and preferably all of the plurality of second protrusions, may have a constant height extension along the extension of the respective protrusion perpendicular to the central axis. The height extension is defined as the distance between the region of the respective protrusion having the shortest distance to the central axis and the region of the respective protrusion having the greatest distance to the central axis. In particular, the height extension may be defined as the distance between the peak and the adjacent valley of the respective protrusion as viewed in a direction toward, and preferably perpendicular to, the central axis. Advantageously, this provides for uniform retention of the article within the device.

The height of at least one of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions may be in the range of 0.2 millimeters to 1.5 millimeters, in particular 0.3 millimeters to 1 millimeter, preferably 0.4 millimeters to 0.8 millimeters, even more preferably 0.4 millimeters to 0.6 millimeters, for example 0.5 millimeters.

In particular, for a cylindrical receiving chamber, at least one of the plurality of first protrusions, and preferably all of the plurality of first protrusions, may have a constant radial distance to the central axis along the extension of the respective protrusion perpendicular to the central axis. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, and preferably all of the plurality of second protrusions, may have a constant radial distance to the central axis along the extension of the respective protrusion perpendicular to the central axis. The radial distance extension is defined as the distance between the central axis and the region of the respective protrusion that has the shortest distance to the central axis.

The receiving chamber may be a multi-part component. In particular, the receiving chamber may comprise a first part and a second part, where the second part is preferably inserted into the first part. The second part may be formed as a sleeve. The second part may be attached to the first part in a form-fit or positive-fit manner. Alternatively or additionally, the second part may be attached to the first part via a friction fit or a snap fit. The second part preferably comprises a first shaft part, while the first part preferably comprises an intermediate shaft part and a second shaft part. Such a configuration facilitates manufacturing, in particular manufacturing by injection molding.

The receiving chamber may be formed as a receiving chamber module, in particular as a tubular sleeve that can be inserted into the body of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, this allows for a modular assembly of the aerosol generating device.

Alternatively, at least a portion of the receiving chamber may be integrally formed with the body. By providing at least a portion of the receiving chamber as part of the body, the number of parts used for the aerosol generating device may be reduced.

At least one of the plurality of first protrusions, in particular each of the plurality of first protrusions, may include or be formed as a rib or may be a rib. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of second protrusions, in particular each of the plurality of second protrusions, may include or be formed as a rib or may be a rib. The one or more ribs preferably extend along the direction of the central axis. The ribs may be arranged symmetrically around the central axis. In particular, the ribs may be arranged equally spaced around the central axis. Any of these configurations are advantageous with respect to improved airflow management of the device. As mentioned above, the term "extending along the direction of the central axis" includes both extensions parallel to the central axis as well as extensions in the general direction of the central axis that are inclined (e.g., 2 degrees to 5 degrees) to the central axis but may still be in a respective common plane with the central axis. The latter applies in particular to a substantially tapered, e.g. conical or frustoconical, shape of the receiving chamber.

One or more of the ribs may have a substantially triangular cross-sectional shape. Alternatively, one or more of the ribs may have a substantially rectangular or substantially trapezoidal, or substantially semi-elliptical or substantially semi-circular cross-sectional shape.

One or more of the ribs may include a contact surface that is preferably adapted to the shape of a respective portion of the aerosol-generating article that it contacts upon insertion of the article into the receiving chamber.

At least one, in particular each, of the plurality of first protrusions and/or at least one, in particular each, of the plurality of second protrusions may be chamfered or may include at least one chamfer. Preferably, each protrusion may be chamfered on the side facing the insertion opening of the receiving chamber or may include at least one chamfer facing the insertion opening of the receiving chamber. Advantageously, this facilitates the insertion of the article into the receiving chamber. Similarly, each protrusion may be chamfered on the side facing away from the insertion opening of the receiving chamber or may include at least one chamfer facing away from the insertion opening of the receiving chamber. Advantageously, this facilitates the removal of the article from the receiving chamber.

The aerosol generating device may further include a heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol-generating article received in the receiving chamber of the device. The heater may be an induction heater. The induction heater may include an induction source including an inductor configured to generate an alternating, particularly high-frequency, electromagnetic field in the receiving chamber. The alternating, particularly high-frequency, electromagnetic field may range from 500 kHz to 30 MHz, particularly from 5 MHz to 15 MHz, preferably from 5 MHz to 10 MHz. When the article is inserted into the receiving chamber, the alternating electromagnetic field is used to inductively heat a susceptor that is in thermal contact or thermal proximity with the aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. The inductor may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the receiving chamber or at least a portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber, respectively. The inductor may be an inductor coil, for example a helical coil, arranged in a side wall of the receiving chamber. The inductor may be arranged to surround at least a middle axial portion of the inner surface. More preferably, the inductor may be arranged to surround only a distal portion of the inner surface. Alternatively, the inductor may be arranged to additionally partially surround the first shaft portion or the second shaft portion, or both the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion.

Alternatively, the heater may be a resistive heater including a resistive heating element. The heating resistive element is configured to heat when an electric current is passed therethrough due to the inherent ohmic resistance or resistive load of the resistive heating element. For example, the resistive heating element may include at least one of a resistive heating wire, a resistive heating track, a resistive heating grid, or a resistive heating mesh. In use of the apparatus, the resistive heating element is in thermal contact or thermal proximity with the aerosol-forming substrate to be heated.

The apparatus may further include a power supply and a controller for providing power and controlling the heating process.

The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the present invention and as described herein. The system further comprises an aerosol generating article comprising at least one aerosol-forming substrate heated by the device, wherein at least a portion of the article is removably receivable or removably received in a receiving chamber of the device.

The device and article are configured such that upon insertion of the article into the receiving chamber, the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions contact at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article to retain the aerosol-generating article in the receiving chamber. In contrast, an intermediate portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber is not in contact with the aerosol-generating article.

It is preferable that the shape of the envelope curve about the central axis intersecting the peaks of each of the first protrusions or the second protrusions corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the aerosol-generating article received in the receiving chamber.

As described above with respect to the aerosol generating device, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions are spaced apart from one another such that an airflow passage is formed between adjacent first and second protrusions, respectively. Advantageously, the shape and distance of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions, respectively, may be selected such that the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) is within a desired range when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the receiving chamber of the device. The resistance to withdrawal (RTD) may be within a range of 70 mmWG to 120 mmWG. Preferably, the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) may be 40 mmWG to 70 mmWG, in particular 45 mmWG to 65 mmWG, for example 55 mmWG.

The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein relates to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate or a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol. The aerosol-forming substrate may also comprise other additives and ingredients such as nicotine or flavoring substances. In particular, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavors. The aerosol-forming substrate may also be a paste-like material, a sachet of porous material containing the aerosol-forming substrate, or for example loose tobacco mixed with a gelling or adhesive agent, which may include a common aerosol former such as glycerin, and then compressed or molded into a plug.

The aerosol-generating article may in particular be a consumable product intended for single use. The aerosol-generating article may be a tobacco article. In particular, the article may be a rod-shaped article, preferably a cylindrical rod-shaped article, which may resemble a conventional cigarette.

The article may include one or more of a first support element, a base element, a second support element, a cooling element, and a filter element. The aerosol-generating article preferably includes at least a first support element, a second support element, and a base element located between the first support element and the second support element.

All of the aforementioned elements may be disposed sequentially along the length axis of the article in the order mentioned above, with the first support element being disposed at the distal end of the article and the filter element being disposed at the proximal end of the article, preferably. Each of the aforementioned elements may be substantially cylindrical. In particular, all elements may have the same outer cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the elements may be surrounded by an outer wrapper to hold the elements together and maintain the desired cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped article. The wrapper is preferably made of paper.

The substrate element preferably comprises at least one aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. If the aerosol generation system is based on induction heating, the substrate element may further comprise a susceptor in thermal contact or thermal proximity with the aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term "susceptor" refers to an element comprising a material capable of inductive heating in an alternating electromagnetic field. This may be the result of at least one of hysteresis losses or eddy currents induced in the susceptor, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the susceptor material.

At least one of the first and second support elements may include a central air passage. Preferably, at least one of the first and second support elements may include a hollow cellulose acetate tube. Alternatively, the first support element may be used to cover and protect the distal end of the base element.

The aerosol cooling element is an element having a large surface area and low draw resistance (e.g., 15 mmWG to 20 mmWG). In use, the aerosol formed by the volatile compounds released from the base element is drawn through the aerosol cooling element before being conveyed to the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article.

The filter element preferably functions as a mouthpiece or as part of a mouthpiece together with the aerosol cooling element. As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to the portion of the article through which the aerosol exits the aerosol-generating article.

The first support element is preferably in contact with or configured to be in contact with a first axial portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber when the article is received in the receiving chamber. Similarly, the second support element is in contact with or configured to be in contact with a second axial portion of the inner surface of the receiving chamber when the article is received in the receiving chamber. In contrast, the base element is preferably configured to be surrounded by or surrounded by the intermediate axial portion of the inner surface when the article is received in the receiving chamber, but not in contact with the intermediate axial portion. Furthermore, the base element may be in at least partial contact with or configured to be in at least partial contact with at least one of the first and second axial portions. As used herein, the term "contact" should be understood such that the first or second support element is in contact with or in contact with the first or second axial portion, respectively, regardless of whether the respective support element is surrounded by a wrapper.

The first support element may preferably have a length along the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the first axial portion along the central axis of the receiving chamber. Similarly, the second support element may have a length along the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the second axial portion along the central axis of the receiving chamber. Thus, the base element may have a length along the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped article corresponding to the length of the intermediate axial portion along the central axis of the receiving chamber. Alternatively, at least one of the first axial portion and the second axial portion may have a length greater than the length of the first support element or the second support element, respectively, so as to at least partially contact the intermediate axial portion.

Any of the foregoing configurations are advantageous for several reasons. First, the base element is spaced from the intermediate shaft portion and is therefore less susceptible to condensation formation. Furthermore, the first and second protrusions of the first and second shaft portions advantageously engage those portions of the article that are most rigid and tend to shrink the least during use. Thus, the article is securely held within the receiving chamber without risk of migration or falling out of the device.

Further features and advantages of the aerosol generating system and aerosol generating article according to the invention have already been described above with respect to the aerosol generating device and apply equally.

The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

1 shows an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention, diagrammatically in cross-section; 2 shows, in a perspective view, a receiving chamber module of the apparatus according to FIG. 1 with an aerosol-generating article introduced therein; 3 shows a schematic diagram of a receiving chamber module and an aerosol-generating article according to FIG. 2 in a perspective cross-sectional view. 3 shows a schematic representation of the receiving chamber module according to FIG. 2 without the aerosol-generating article; 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the receiving chamber according to FIG. 2; 5 shows a schematic front view of the receiving chamber according to FIG. 4;

Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating device 200 according to the present invention. The aerosol generating device 200 has an elongated shape and includes a body 210 and a receiving chamber module 220. The chamber module 220 includes a receiving chamber 1 for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol generating article 2. The receiving chamber module 220 is inserted into a cavity 230 formed in a proximal portion 211 of the body 210. In a distal portion 212, the body 210 includes a power supply 250 and a controller 260 for powering and controlling the operation of the device 200. The aerosol generating device 200 and the aerosol generating article 2 together form an aerosol generating system according to the present invention.

Within the proximal portion 211 of the body 210 that forms the cavity 230, the aerosol generating device 200 includes an inductor 240. In this embodiment, the inductor 240 is a helical coil disposed around the receiving chamber 1. The inductor 240 is part of an induction heater that is powered and operated by a power supply 250 and a controller 260. In use of the device, the inductor 240 generates an alternating electromagnetic field within the receiving chamber 1 to inductively heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained within the article 2 when the article 2 is received in the receiving chamber 1.

2, 3, and 4 show different embodiments of the receiving chamber module 220 with and without the aerosol-generating article 2. As shown, the receiving chamber module 220 is an elongated sleeve including an insertion opening 15 through which the aerosol-generating article 2 can be at least partially inserted into the receiving chamber 1. The insertion direction of the aerosol-generating article 2 extends substantially along the central axis 201 of the receiving chamber 1. The receiving chamber 1 is made of PEEK (polyetheretherketone). The receiving chamber 1 has a substantially cylindrical shape with a substantially circular cross-section having a diameter of about 15 millimeters.

Corresponding to the shape of the receiving chamber 1, the aerosol-generating article 2 also has a substantially cylindrical rod shape. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the article 2 includes five elements arranged sequentially along the length axis of the article 2: a first support element 25, a base element 24, a second support element 23 including a central air passage 26, a cooling element 22, and a filter element 21. The first support element 25 is arranged at the distal end of the article 2, and the filter element 21 is arranged at the proximal end of the article 2. Each of the aforementioned elements 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 is substantially cylindrical, and all of them have the same outer cross-sectional shape. Furthermore, the elements are surrounded by an outer wrapper to hold the elements together and maintain the desired circular cross-sectional shape of the rod-shaped article 2. The wrapper is preferably made of paper. The first support element 25 is used to cover and protect the distal end of the base element 24. The base element 24 includes at least one aerosol-forming substrate to be heated. In addition, the base element 24 further includes a susceptor (not shown) in thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. Upon actuation of the inductor 240, the susceptor heats due to at least one of eddy currents or hysteresis losses induced by the electromagnetic field, depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the susceptor material. The susceptor heats up and reaches a temperature sufficient to vaporize the material from the aerosol-forming substrate. The released material can be entrained in the airflow passing through the article 2 from the first support element 25, through the base element 24, the second support element 23, and the cooling element 22 toward the filter element 21. In this way, the vaporized material cools to form an aerosol, which then exits the filter element 21 at the proximal end of the article 2.

5 shows further details of the receiving chamber module 220 and the receiving chamber 1, respectively. The receiving chamber 1 includes an inner surface 16 that extends over the entire axial length of the receiving chamber 1. In this embodiment, the axial length of the receiving chamber 1 ranges from 25 millimeters to 28 millimeters. Along the central axis 201 of the receiving chamber 1, the inner surface 16 includes a first shaft portion 11, a second shaft portion 13, and an intermediate shaft portion 12 located between the first shaft portion 11 and the second shaft portion 13. The length of the intermediate shaft portion 12 is about 33 percent (about 1/3) of the axial length of the receiving chamber 1. As further seen in FIG. 5, the receiving chamber module 220 or the receiving chamber 1, respectively, is a multi-part component including a first part 221 and a second part 222. The second part 222 is formed as a sleeve and is inserted into the first part 221. The second portion 222 may be attached to the first portion 221 via a form-fit or positive-fit manner, or a friction or snap fit. The second portion 221 includes the second shaft portion 13, while the first portion includes the intermediate shaft portion 12 and the second shaft portion 13. Such a configuration facilitates manufacturing, particularly by injection molding.

The first shaft portion 11 includes a plurality of first protrusions 10, e.g., twelve first protrusions 10. Similarly, the second shaft portion 13 includes a plurality of second protrusions 17, e.g., twelve second protrusions 17. In contrast, the intermediate shaft portion 12 does not include any protrusions, but is flat. Thus, the plurality of first protrusions 10 and the plurality of second protrusions 17 extend radially inward toward the central axis 201 beyond the intermediate shaft portion 12. Thus, when the article 2 is inserted into the receiving cavity 1, the article 2 only contacts the plurality of first protrusions 10 and the plurality of second protrusions 17. In contrast, as can be particularly seen in FIG. 1, the article 2 does not contact the intermediate shaft portion 12 of the inner surface 16. As a result, the overall contact area between the article 2 and the inner surface 16 of the receiving chamber 1 is significantly reduced. Advantageously, this results in an overall reduction in heat loss by direct thermal conduction from the aerosol-generating article 2 to the inner surface 16. Furthermore, the adverse wetting effects on the article due to condensation formation in the chamber 1 are also reduced.

Despite the reduced contact area between the article 2 and the inner surface 16, the article 2 is still firmly held in the receiving chamber 1 by the first protrusion 10 and the second protrusion 17. In the present embodiment, this applies even more since the arrangement and dimensions of the first shaft portion 11, the second shaft portion 12 and the intermediate shaft portion 13, on the one hand, and the arrangement and dimensions of the first support element 25, the base element 24 and the second support element 23, on the other hand, are adapted to each other. As can be seen in Figures 1 and 3, when the article 2 is received in the chamber 1, the first support element 25 contacts the first protrusion 10 of the first shaft portion 11, and the second support element 23 contacts the second protrusion 17 of the second shaft portion 13. In contrast, the base element 24 is substantially surrounded by the intermediate shaft portion 12 but does not contact it. Only at its very axial end, the base element 24 is in partial contact with the first projection 10 of the first shaft portion 11 and the second projection 17 of the second shaft portion 13. With this particular configuration, the first and second projections 10, 17 of the first and second shaft portions 11, 13 substantially only engage those portions of the article 2 that are the stiffest and have the least contraction during use, i.e., the first and second support elements 23, 25.

As mentioned above, the receiving chamber 1 has a substantially cylindrical shape, which refers to the shape of the receiving chamber 1 when masking the first and second protrusions 10 and 17. Thus, the area of the first shaft portion 11, particularly the area between adjacent first protrusions 10, and the area of the second shaft portion 13, particularly the area between adjacent second protrusions 17, as well as the area of the intermediate portion, are arranged on a common cylindrical shell surface.

In this embodiment, the first and second projections are formed as ribs extending along a direction parallel to the central axis 201. The twelve ribs of each one of the first and second shaft portions 11, 13 are symmetrically arranged around the central axis 201 and equally spaced from each other. The spacing between adjacent ribs is in the range of 1.3 millimeters to 1.5 millimeters. With respect to its length extension, each rib is chamfered or includes a respective chamfer at both ends, i.e., on the side facing the insertion opening 15 and on the opposite side facing away from the insertion opening 15. Advantageously, the chamfer facilitates the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 2 into and removal from the receiving chamber 1. Apart from that, each rib has a constant height extension along its length extension. In this embodiment, the height is in the range of 0.4 millimeters to 0.5 millimeters when measured in a radial direction towards the central axis 201.

As shown in FIG. 6, each rib has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis 201. Along its length extension, the edges 31 of each rib are rounded to avoid slitting the wrapper of the aerosol-generating article 2 during insertion and removal of the article 2.

5, the first protrusions 10 of the first shaft portion 11 and the second protrusions 17 of the second shaft portion 13 are aligned, i.e., each of the first protrusions 10 is aligned with a respective one of the second protrusions 17 as viewed in a direction parallel to the central axis 201. Thus, the gaps 32 between adjacent first protrusions 10 and between adjacent second protrusions 17 advantageously form a multi-channel airflow passage (see dashed arrows in FIG. 5) that extends from the insertion opening 15 at the proximal end 4 of the receiving chamber 1 to the bottom of the receiving chamber 1 at its distal end 5.

Thus, when negative pressure is applied to the filter element 21 of the aerosol-generating article 2 received in the receiving chamber 1, for example when a user puffs, air is drawn into the receiving chamber 1 at the edge of the insertion opening 15 and further along the multi-channel airflow passage to the bottom at the distal end 4 of the receiving chamber 1. Here, the airflow enters the aerosol-generating article 2 through the first support element 25, further passes through the base element 24, the second support element 23, the aerosol cooling element 22, and the filter element 21, and the airflow finally exits the article 2. At the base element 24A, vaporized material from the aerosol-forming substrate is entrained in the airflow and then cooled on its further path through the second support element 23, the aerosol cooling element 22, and the filter element 21, for example to form an aerosol.

To allow for proper redirection of the airflow into the aerosol-generating article 2 at the bottom of the receiving chamber 1, the aerosol generating device 200 according to this embodiment includes three end stops 14 disposed at the distal end 5 of the receiving chamber 1. The end stops 14 are configured to limit the insertion depth of the article 2 into the receiving chamber 1, thus preventing the article 2 from abutting against the bottom surface of the receiving chamber 1. This is shown in FIG.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, the three end stops 14 are formed as ring segments symmetrically and evenly spaced about the central axis 201 of the inner circumference of the receiving chamber 1. Each ring segment 14 has a height dimension in the direction of the central axis 201 in the range of 1 millimeter to 3 millimeters, e.g., 1.4 millimeters, and a radial dimension in the range of 1 millimeter to 2 millimeters, e.g., 1.3 millimeters when measured radially toward the central axis 201.

As further seen in FIG. 5, the end stop 14 covers or blocks a portion of the airflow passage channel defined by the gap 32 between adjacent first protrusions 10 and adjacent second protrusions 17. As a result, the airflow passing between the article 1, the plurality of first protrusions 10, the plurality of second protrusions 17, and the end stop 14 is reduced compared to the airflow passing between the article 2, the plurality of first protrusions 10, and the plurality of second protrusions 17 in the absence of the end stop 14. As a result, the pull-out resistance of the system is also increased compared to a system without end stops. In use of the device, the pull-out resistance may be in the range of 70 mmWG to 120 mmWG. It is preferred that the pull-out resistance (RTD) may be 40 mmWG to 70 mmWG, in particular 45 mmWG to 65 mmWG, for example 55 mmWG. To ensure a reasonable minimum airflow and reasonable withdrawal resistance, the number, shape and dimensions of the end stops are preferably selected such that the (reduced) airflow is at least 50 percent, in particular at least 60 percent, preferably at least 70 percent, and even more preferably at least 80 percent of the airflow in the absence of the end stops. This can be achieved by selecting the number, shape and dimensions of the end stops such that they cover up to 50 percent, in particular up to 40 percent, preferably up to 30 percent, and even more preferably up to 20 percent of the total cross-sectional area of all gaps 32 defined between adjacent first protrusions 10 or between adjacent second protrusions 17, as seen in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. In this embodiment, the total cross-sectional area of all gaps 32 defined between adjacent first protrusions 10 or between adjacent second protrusions 17 is about 4.5 square millimeters taking into account the coverage by the end stops 14, and about 7.2 square millimeters in the absence of the end stops 14.

Claims (14)

1. An aerosol generating device for use with an aerosol-generating article, the device comprising a receiving chamber for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article, the receiving chamber having an inner surface and a central axis, the inner surface comprising a first shaft portion, a second shaft portion, and an intermediate shaft portion located between the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion, the first shaft portion comprising a plurality of first protrusions, the second shaft portion comprising a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions being interposed between the aerosol-generating article and the receiving chamber, the inner surface comprising a first shaft portion, a second shaft portion, and an intermediate shaft portion located between the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion, the first shaft portion comprising a plurality of first protrusions and the second shaft portion comprising a plurality of second protrusions, the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions being interposed between the aerosol-generating article and the receiving chamber, the inner surface comprising a first shaft portion, a second shaft portion, and an intermediate shaft portion located between the first shaft portion and the second shaft portion ... intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first shaft portion and the intermediate shaft portion, the intermediate shaft portion being interposed between the first An aerosol generating device, comprising: an aerosol generating article configured to contact a first support element and a second support element of the aerosol generating article, respectively, to hold the aerosol generating article in the receiving chamber; the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions extending in a direction toward the central axis beyond the intermediate shaft portion; the intermediate shaft portion having a length of at least 20% of the total length of the inner surface or the receiving chamber in the direction of the central axis; and configured to surround a base element of the aerosol generating article when the article is received in the receiving chamber. The aerosol generating device of claim 1 , wherein the intermediate shaft portion does not have any protrusions . An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein at least one of the protrusions of the plurality of first protrusions or at least one of the protrusions of the plurality of second protrusions extends in a direction substantially along the central axis of the receiving chamber. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising one or more end stops disposed at a distal end of the receiving chamber. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the one or more end stops cause an increase in withdrawal resistance of up to 50 percent compared to the device not having any end stops. The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the one or more end stops cover up to 50 percent of the total cross-sectional area of all gaps defined between adjacent first protrusions or adjacent second protrusions as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the central axis. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the one or more end stops are formed as ring segments. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions or at least one protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions has a constant radial distance from the central axis over the respective lengths of the respective protrusions . The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the receiving chamber comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being inserted within the first portion and the second portion being formed as a sleeve including the second shaft portion, while the first portion includes the first shaft portion. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the receiving chamber is formed as a sleeve and inserted into the body of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the first protrusions and the second protrusions is formed as a rib extending axially relative to the central axis. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein at least one of the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions is chamfered on at least one of the side facing the insertion opening of the receiving chamber or the opposite side facing the opposite side to the insertion opening of the receiving chamber. An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12 and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol generating article is removably received or removably receivable in the receiving chamber of the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating system of claim 13, wherein the aerosol generating article includes at least a first support element, a second support element, and a base element that includes the aerosol-forming substrate and is located between the first support element and the second support element, and when the article is received in the receiving chamber, the first support element contacts the first shaft portion, the second support element contacts the second shaft portion, and the base element is surrounded by the intermediate shaft portion without contacting the intermediate shaft portion.

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